Real Estate Fraud Big in Orange County

According to a report in October 2012 by the Legislative Analyst's Office, a nonpartisan government agency located in Sacramento, Orange County exceeded all other California counties in the number of real estate fraud cases investigated by law enforcement agencies during the 2011-2012 fiscal year. The agency reported 340 cases of such fraud being investigated in that year, which was almost 100 more than the next highest county, which was Los Angeles, with 234. This was the third year in a row that Orange County led in real estate fraud cases. In the fiscal year of 2008-2009, it was the second highest county in terms of real estate fraud.

A great deal of the real estate fraud cases were loan modification scams where "loan mod mills" engaged in fraudulent activity targeted at distressed homeowners, many of them from out of state. According to legal experts, scamming out-of-state individuals is better for the fraudsters because such cases are more difficult to prosecute and for victims to trace the originators of the operation. Real estate fraud is just one type of fraud crime, in which deceit and misrepresentation are used to gain funds or services that are undeserved. Other types of state fraud include welfare fraud, insurance fraud, and embezzlement schemes.

Fraud Defense Representation in Orange County, California

All types of state fraud charges are serious, with the potential for severe penalties including incarceration and heavy fines. These types of criminal charges should be handled by an experienced criminal defense attorney who has the knowledge, skills, and resources to provide the most effective legal strategies. The Law Office of Barney B. Gibbs, serving the greater Orange County area, provides capable legal service to all those facing state fraud charges as well as other types of misdemeanors and felonies.

Attorney Gibbs has 27 years of legal experience in criminal law and is thoroughly familiar with the local court systems in Orange County as well as the constantly changing laws in California. He has handled over 2,500 criminal cases. That is the kind of experience that can make a difference in how your case is decided. To get the benefit of a tough attorney who will work hard to preserve your future and freedom, contact the firm for a free consultation about your case today.